Austin Police ID Motorcyclist Killed After Being Hit By SUV

AUSTIN, TEXAS — Police on Thursday identified the motorcyclist who was killed after being struck by a vehicle along the MoPac Expressway in December.

According to a preliminary police investigation, a 2016 Indian motorcycle was stopped on the right shoulder along the 9500 block of North Mopac (Loop 1) southbound just before 8:30 p.m. when an SUV, also traveling southbound, drifted off to the right and struck the bike. In the aftermath of the collision, Elijah Perales, 22, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police noted the driver of the SUV remained on the scene awaiting arrival of police, who are still trying to determine if any charges are to be filed. As they continue their investigation, detectives ask anyone with information regarding this case to call them at (512) 974-6935. Those with information also can submit tips by downloading APD’s mobile app, Austin PD, for free on iPhone and Android.

The deadly incident marked the city's 73rd fatal traffic crash of 2018, resulting in 74 fatalities by that point last year, police noted. By the same time in 2017, police added, there were 71 fatal traffic crashes and 76 traffic fatalities.

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